President’s Letter.

My year as President got off to an excellent start with the pleasurable experiencesof attending, with my wife Janet, the annual dinners of both the Chester and Oxford Gilds.

I am now looking forward to welcoming everyone to this year’s FEW Court, which as you know, is the governing body of our Association of Freemen of England and Wales. It is important that as many of you as possible attend this once yearly event in March, in order that the Executive is correctly guided in its day to day administrative role.This year the Court will be held in the Bailiffs’ Room of the 17th Century Alcester Town Hall, the home of Member Gild, the Alcester Court Leet.

As President, I am very much aware of the stalwart work of our very competent team of FEW Wardens, who each liaise closely with our Gild Members, regularly producing comprehensive reports of their activities. I would like to offer my sincere personal thanks to these Officers, who are at the heart of this Association. As I mentioned in the last Journal, we unfortunately still have vacancies for Wardens in our North West and East Regions, following retirements and resignations. Vice Chairman, Stephen White would be pleased to hear of any volunteers wishing to take on either of these two positions.

Did you know that FEW has the most comprehensive website and also its own Facebook Page? Refer to these for detailed information on the workings of FEW and the Freedom, and for up to date information snippets, together with lots of FEW and Gild event news and photographs. The addresses for each of these sites can be found on the last page of this Journal.

Following careful consideration by the Executive, the suggestion that FEW mightset up some form of exhibition demonstrating the Freedom and showing the work of Gild Members, has prompted the pilot project for a selection of photographs to be put on display at this year’s 50th Anniversary AGM in York.

In conclusion, and somewhat belatedly, I wish everyone a happy and successful 2016. Ronald E.Leek. President.

News From the Guilds.Alcester :

The Annual Court Leet, Court Baron, and View of Frankpledge was held on 8th October in the Town Hall, chaired by the Marquess’s Steward, John Hill. Guests from other local Courts Leet and the FEW Area Warden were in attendance. Three new Jurors took the Oath of Frankpledge, including the Rector, the Rev Adrian Guthrie, who has eight churches to look after - so will be a busy man. Retiring High Bailiff Vaughan Blake thanked his Court and Officers for helping to raise over £10,000 for local causes during his year of office. New High Bailiff Tim Forman took the Oath, and was enrobed into office, with Ian Whitehead taking the Low Bailiff’s role. Long standing Parade Marshal Terry Pegrum retired, and was replaced by Marcus Brampton. The Jurors under Foreman Ron Leek deliberated on whether to allow lady Jurors, but decided not at this time.The annual Court Leet church service was held on 25th October, with the High Street closed to traffic for the robed parade. A Town Hall reception followed.The Town Hall will also be the venue for the Spring FEW Court Meeting, scheduled for the 12th March, by kind invitation of the High Bailiff. See website www.alcestercourtleet.co.uk for details of other forthcoming events.

Bridgnorth:

On Saturday 24th October The Gild of Bridgnorth Freeman held their 33rd Annual Banquet at the Punch Bowl Inn Bridgnorth.The Town Mayor & Mayoress Councilor David Cooper and his wife attended together with freeman from Shewsbury, London, Bridgnorth & guests .After dinner speaker for the evening was Shelia Dibnah (Pictured below with the Mayoral Party and Robed attendees) who gave a interesting insight into her life with her late husband the famous Steeple Jack, Fred Dibnah.

Chester:

Chester's hardworking President, Canon Dennis Kelly, kindly volunteered to edit the DevaPentice, the annual journal of the Freemen and Guilds, due out later this year. We are now anxious to find an Editor for our thrice-yearly Newsletter.David Starbuck Edwards was elected Vice Chairman at the AGM in June last year, and will succeed Brian Evans as Chairman this year. Brian has been a hardworking and conscientious Chairman during his period of office, transforming the administration of theGuilds. We wish David an equally successful time as Chairman.Following ancient custom, freemen will act as stave-bearers at the Lord Mayor making in the Town Hall in May, and we will be volunteer sidesmen in Chester Cathedral at the Civic Service, where civic dignitaries from all over West Cheshire will process in their robes.

Colchester:

The annual Freeburgesses Admissions Ceremony (See picture below) was held on Tuesday 6th October 2015 in the Mayor's Parlour of Colchester Town Hall at 6pm. Fifteencandidates (eight women and seven men) were present, together with their Witnesses (a family member who is also a Freeburgess). Following the welcoming address from the Mayor, Cllr Mrs Theresa Higgins, the Council's Solicitor, Mr Andrew Weavers invited the Candidates to either affirm or swear the Allegiance.

Coventry:

On the first weekend in June the Guild was pleased to support our fellow FEW South Midlands Area Leicester Freemen’s Gild for their banquet weekend events, which included a talk by an archaeologist on the Richard III burial site excavations.On 9th June a Senior Freemen’s Evening was held at the Coundon Social Club, where old aquaintances were renewed, and new ones made over a buffet and pint. A raffle helped raise funds for our Master’s charity – the Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance.On 20th June our Master and Clerk attended the opening of the new RN&I Portishead Lifeboat Station, managed by Coventry Guild Past Master Bob Crane.On the first weekend in July the Guild supported the annual Godiva Festival, helping to raise the profile of Freemen and Guild membership to the 40000+ who thronged Coventry’s War Memorial Park.On 12th July our Master’s Garden Party at the RAFA club in Coventry was another fund raising social occasion with bookstalls, tombola, bottle draw etc, and a musical group providing a pleasant afternoon with a relaxed meal al fresco.On 21st July we welcomed a fellow Freeman, and now Lord Mayor of Coventry, Councillor Michael Hammon as President of the Guild for his Mayoral year. Guild plaques were presented to last year’s President Cllr Hazel Noonan, and PM Charlie Platts in recognition of their services to the Guild.On 29th July our Junior Warden Brian Jackson organised a viewing of the stained glass window pieces removed from the medieval Coventry cathedral just prior to the second World War. Sadly the blitz damage meant the glass could not be reinstalled, but a complete window also from the Coventry Master glazier John Thornton has been restored in York Minster.On 7th August we were pleased to welcome the Leicester Gild to the annual games evening at Barnacle village hall. After rounds of Long Alley, bar, and ‘Devil amongst the Tailors’ skittles, a fish & Chip supper steadied the throwing hands before the individual knock out competitions.On 30th August a Guild party visited the London Road landscaped cemetery. As a Past Master remarked this was a compulsory purchase of Freemen’s Charity Fund land, and was laid out in 1846-7 by Sir Joseph Paxton MP, who in 1851 designed the Great Exhibition’s Crystal Palace in Hyde ParkOn 12-13th September our medieval Freemen’s Guildroom crypt was open to the public as part of the national Heritage Open Days weekend events. Some 250 visitors saw our Heritage displays, and potential Guild members took our literature to study.On 20th September a Guild party visited the Charterhouse Priory. This Carthusian Priory of St Anne had its foundation stone laid by Richard II in 1385, and whilst its church and monks lodgings were demolished after the 16th century dissolution, the prior’s lodgings and refectory survive today by being turned into a private house, with extra floors and staircases disfiguring the medieval and Tudor renaissance period paintings. Our thanks to Junior Warden Brian Jackson for a most interesting afternoon.In complete contrast, our next Guild visit on 13th October was to the BBC Birmingham facility at the Mailbox building.

On 22nd October a Guild Admission Court was held in the Council Chamber for the

installation of 16 new Guild members.On 27th October a Lord Mayor’s Admission Court welcomed 42 new Freemen, who all received the latest copy of ‘The Guildsman’ magazine and details of how to join the Freemen’s Guild.

Durham:

Durham City Freemen held their Annual Dinner on 3 October. There were 60 guests which included local Freemen and their guests as well as others from around the country. We were also joined by friends from the York Guild and by Gordon Varndell and Eileen Forth representating the Freemen of England and Wales. We were delighted to welcome the Worshipful Mayor of Durham City, Councillor Jan Blakey and her Consort and husband Alan Blakey. Our principal guests were Mike Barton, Chief Constable of DurhamPolice and his wife Maggie.

The evening began with a sherry reception after which there was a four course meal.

After the meal a Toast to the health of the guests was proposed by Norman Hart, the recently appointed Chairman of our Trustees. The Mayor was then presented with a cheque for £1000.00 as a donation to her Charity Appeal which this year is in support of Trinity School at Aykley Heads. The Mayor proposed a toast to the City of Durham.

We were then treated to a thought provoking talk from Mike Barton who outlined his ideas about policing in the 21st Century, touching on restorative justice and radical approaches for dealing with drug offenders.

The evening was closed by the presentation of flowers to the Mayor and Mrs Barton and commemorative tankards to Mike Barton and Alan Blakey.

Haverfordwest:

There are 289 Hereditary Freemen and Women of Haverfordwst scattered in all corners of the world, the Annual General Meeting of the Gild was told at the weekend.

The meeting in County Hall was part of the Gild’s Annual Weekend which included the Annual Banquet at Wolfscastle and the Benefactors’ Service in St Martin’s Church.

Following welcome speeches by the chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council, Coun-cillor Wyn Evans and Town Mayor Councillor Mrs Sue Murray, the Freemen and Burgesses stood in silent tribute to eight members who had died since the last meeting. Following the presentation of accounts by Gild Clerk Mr Paul Lucas, the Master of the Gild, Mr Charles Daves, welcomed two new Burgesses, Cllr Wyn Evans and Mr Roger Smith. He reported that although some interest had been shown in the sale of Haroldston ruins, birthplace of the town’s principal benefactor Sir John Perrot, there had been no sale so yet. Mr Malcolm Thomas, Chairman of Trustees of the Gild’s 250-acre estate of agri-cultural land between Portfield Gate and Brooksgrove, said the number of tenants was now five compared with a former total of 15.

Mr Roy Folland, Master of the Pembroke Gild and Welsh Warden for Wales of the Freemen of England and Wales, reported on the recent AGM of the FEW at Berwick-on-Tweed, the members of which had sent cordial greetings to the Haverfordwest Gild. He said his visit had entailed a 1,000 mile journey and a visit to magnificent Alnwick Castle.

The annual Banquet at the Wolfscastle Country Hotel was a happy social occasion, entertained by local vocalist Glesni Edwards accompanied by Jordan Dickin, when the Master of Ceremonies was the Gild Clerk, Mr Paul Lucas. The annual Benefactors’ Ser-vice at St Martin’s Church was conducted and addressed by Gild Chaplain, Burgess the Revd Nick Cale, and the lessons were read by Master Charles Davies and Deputy Master Mr Martin Green. Civic leaders from several areas attended.

Accusing Pembrokeshire County Council of ignoring a 1,000-signature petition from townsfolk opposing the imposition of parking charges on St Thomas’ Green, the Master ofHaverfordwest Gild of Freemen, Mr Charles Davies, urged authority officers to heed public opinion and abandon the plan for the sake of town trade.

“Free and plentiful parking is of great advantage to traders and visitors,” he said. “Wales has the highest number of empty shops in the UK and Pembrokeshire is no exception. People have to be encouraged into empty premises and free parking is important to the development and regeneration of the shopping centre.”

Mr Davies added that the town centre streets were very untidy and he praised the group ofladies who recently brightened them up with imaginative knitted decorations.

The Master was speaking at the Gild’s annual banquet at Wolfscastle at the weekend in re-sponse to a toast to the Gild by the chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council, Councillor Wyn Evans, who referred to the strong relationship between the Gild and the Council. He assured his listeners that: “Things are changing in the County Council where there is a fresh approach.” He welcomed an initiative which had brought young people into County hall with wonderful ideas about how the County should operate, and who

were not afraid to ask questions. He expressed pride in the success of the Iron Man contestand said the competitors were in awe of the County with its friendly people, beautiful coast and countryside and rich historical heritage.

The toast to the guests was proposed by Warden Michael Hughes with a response by the principal guest speaker the Right Revd John Saxbee, former Bishop of Lincoln, who said that he and his wife had received the warmest possible welcome from Pembrokeshire people since they retired to Haverfordwest 4 years ago. In a witty and entertaining speech he referred to the rich history of both the town and the county and said that there was talk of new politics and also a possible new image for the County Council. “If we are not prepared for change we are going to repeat the mistakes of the past,” he added. “We need to ensure that we continue to work in partnership with all sectors of our economy and our democracy.”

The banquet was part of the annual weekend which included the AGM and the Benefactors’ Service in St Martins Church.

Henley-in-Arden:

At last November’s Annual Court Leet and Court Baron meeting, held in the High Street Guildhall, retiring High Bailiff John Rutherford was thanked for his second term as High Bailiff. New High Bailiff Norman Kench was sworn into office, and Graham Smith elected by the Jury as Low Bailiff. Ale Tasters, Brooklookers, and other Officers presentedtheir reports, and Town Crier Gordon Trinder retired after 14 years of service – to be replaced by Les Long. Chairman of the Joint Parish Council. Bill Leech gave a Presentment on the development plans for a 46 acre cemetery, which was considered well in excess of local needs, and the Presentment was approved by the Court to pass to the Stratford District Council.High Bailiff Norman has organised the refurbishment of 40 manorial shields, which wereoriginally commissioned over 100 years ago. An open morning in the Guildhall to displaythe shields and coats of arms, and answer related queries, was held on the 16th January.Henley Court Leet Day, where traditional Assizes, including bread weighing, fish & fleshtasting etc, are performed, will be held this year on 4th June.

Leicester:

Thursday 23rd April. Seventeen members of the Gild attended St Mary de Castro Church, for the annual St George’s Day service, after the service drinks and refreshments were served in the south aisle of the church. Friday 5th June. The Leicester Banquet weekend began with a welcome supper held at Freemen’s Holt. When forty Freemen including visiting Freemen from Australia, Coventry, London, York, the evening began with a two course meal being served, and concluded with a quiz and a raffle, with the proceeds donated to the Lord Mayor’s appeal.Saturday 6th June. Our annual Banquet was once again held at Devonshire Place when seventy Freemen and friends including visiting Freemen from Australia, Coventry, Lincoln London, Oxford and York. The food and service were both excellent as usual and the lamb generated a lot of positive comments. The guest speaker was Dr Richard BuckleyOBE, Co-Director – Archaeological Services at the University of Leicester who lead the

team that found the remains of King Richard 111. Richard gave a very interesting talk on Roman Leicester and the antiquities that were found. Our Patron, Col Martin OBE DL, also gave an after dinner talk which touched on Leicester Freemen during WW1 and the Magna Carta. A big thank you must go to Col Martin for arranging for the WW1 LeicesterFreemen Display to be brought out of its storage and displayed. The Gild President, The Right Worshipful The Lord Mayor of Leicester Councillor Ted Cassidy MBE was also oneof the distinguished guests.Sunday 7th June. The annual Freemen’s service held at Leicester Cathedral. The parade before the service was lead by The Mace Bearer, The Lord Mayor of Leicester, The High Sherriff- Gordon Arthur and Mrs Janet Arthur and The President of the Freemen of England and Wales Gordon Varndell and his Consort Mrs Eileen Forth, followed by the Leicester Gild, and the visiting Guilds. After the service several group photos were taken at the statue of King Richard 111.Wednesday 24th June. The Lord Mayor invited seven robed Freemen to join him for the Damask Rose Ceremony. The Lord Mayor, in full regalia, the Deputy Lord Mayor two Ward Councillors and the Freemen processed from the Town Hall lead by the Mace Bearer to O’Neill’s (formerly, the Crown and Thistle) in Loseby Lane. On our arrival The Lord Mayor proceeded to knock on the door. He was greeted by the Land Lord Steve Thorn suitably attired in clothing that was worn hundreds of years ago and presented the Lord Mayor with four old pennies and a Damask Rose. In the 1700 century it would have been the rent for one year. The ceremony is always held on this day to coincide with the Feast of John the Baptist.Saturday 4th July. Leicester’s Armed Forces Day service was held at Leicester Cathedral when fifteen Freemen and their wives and partners, attended the Service with members of the Armed Forces, the Veterans and The Royal British Legion. After the service a Parade was held though the City returning to the Cathedral for drinks and refreshments.Sunday 5th July. The Lord Mayor invited the five Freemen and their wives to attend his Civic Service held at the Leicester Cathedral, after the service afternoon cakes and tea were served in the south aisle of the Cathedral.Friday 7th August. Coventry Freemen held a skittles evening at Barnacle Village Hall, andinvited members of the Leicester Gild to join them in their evening activities. This was very much appreciated especially the fish and chip supper. Saturday 15th August. A Service of Commemoration, to mark the 70th Anniversary of VJDay was held at Leicester Cathedral, when fifteen Freemen their wives and partners attended the Service which was held in the presence of the Lord Mayor, and Veterans who had served in the Far East Campaign. The Royal British Legion and members of the Armed Forces also attended the service. Thursday 20th August. The Gild visited Beaumanor Hall at Woodhouse Eves. The eveningstarted with a tour of the magnificent Hall and Gardens. This was then followed, with a tour of the buildings erected in WW11 when Beaumanor Hall was a Y station sending on coded messages to Bletchley Park. Thursday 10th September. Leicester Cathedral invited the Leicester Gild to attend a Choral Evensong Service to celebrate HM Queen Elizabeth 11 as the Longest-Reigning Monarch of Great Britain.Sunday 13th September. The High Sheriff of Leicester invited the Leicester Gild to attend his Justice Service with a Magna Carta 800 years of Liberty Theme at Leicester Cathedral.

Colonel Robert Martin OBE DL Patron of the Leicester Gild wearing his robe carried a replica copy of the Magna Carta into the Cathedral. 2015 marks the 800 anniversary of thesealing Magna Carta by King John.Friday 9th October until Sunday 11th. The Master of Leicester Gild Mrs Lynn Roffee andher Consort Mr Brian Roffee represented the Leicester Gild at the Chester Banquet weekend.Tuesday 13th October. The Master of the Leicester Gild Mrs Lynn Roffee and her ConsortMr Brian Roffee were invited by the Dean of Leicester Cathedral and The Royal Tiger’s Association, The Royal Leicestershire Regiment, to attend a special service of Choral Evensong in Leicester Cathedral to Commemorate the Centenary of the Battle of Loo’s (Hohenzollern Redoubt) which took place on 13th October 1915. After the service Robin Jenkins, Senior Archivist from the Leicester Records Office gave an interesting talk on Leicester’s Darkest Day.Sunday 18th October. The Gild received an invitation from H.M. Lord-Lieutenant, Lady Jennifer Gretton JP and The Chairman of Leicestershire County Council, David Snart to attend the County Service for Leicestershire. This service is usually held in the County and as it was held at Leicester Cathedral it was the first time the Leicester Gild have been invited to attend. Saturday 14th November. A very interesting talk was given by Jed Jaggard on arming a Knight. This was a hands on history for all the family with the opportunity to handle the types of clothing worn and the armour used by a Knight. We were also able to wear some of the armour. During the evening a hot buffet supper and drinks were served. Monday 21st December. The Leicester Gild held an evensong of the most favourite and popular Christmas Carols, at St Andrews Church Aylestone which is located next to Freemen’s Holt. The service was attended by members of the Gild, the residents of the Holt and members of the Church Congregation. After the service we returned to the Community Centre at Freemen’s Holt for warm Mince pies and Mulled Wine. Please make a note in your diary. The leicester gild banquet this year will be held over the weekend of Friday 3rd June, Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th .The Friday night evening supper will be held at Freemen’s Holt. The Saturday banquet will be at Devonshire Place London Road.The Sunday morning church service will be held at Leicester Cathedral.For booking forms and further information on the weekend please contact Michael Ayres on 01162242353 mickayres31@virginmedia.com

Lincoln:

On Saturday 10th October 2015, six new Freemen were invested in a ceremony in the Guildhall in Saltergate, by the Mayor of Lincoln, Councillor Andrew Kerry in the presence of the City Sheriff and his Lady, Mr Graham Kent and Mrs Gill Kent, as well as guest speaker, the Hon. Secretary of the Freemen of England and Wales, Mr Nick R S Johnson (who is also the FEW Acting Warden for Eastern England and Anglia).The introduction was conducted by the President of the Gild, Mr Tony Gadd in the presence of the Master of the Gild, Mr Roy Froggatt, and the new Freemen are Charles Gadd, Eleanor Gadd, Karen Huddleston, Linda Hunter, Ellen Lamming, and James Mapleston. In addition, four new Associate Members were invested - Charlotte Powell, Doreen Webb, Paul Benton, and Roy Houlden. (See Picture on the next page).

The New Freemen, Mayoral Party and our Hon.Secretary at the Lincoln Ceremony.

Warwick:

At the 461st Annual Meeting held on 29th October, guests from the local Courts Leet and the FEW Area Warden were joined by the High Sheriff Janet Bell Smith, and welcomed by the Lord of the Leet – the Town Mayor Cllr Mandy Littlejohn. Low Bailiff Janet Honnoraty was sworn into office as Bailiff, only the second ever Lady in this Warwick role. Retiring Bailiff Roger Smith was confirmed as Ealderman, the first since 1975, with the same voting rights as existing jurors. Low Bailiff elect Tony Hemming was sworn intooffice, and new Juror Mark Robertson also duly sworn and enrobed. Leet Officers then gave reports, including a very successful Beer Festival which will be repeated in 2016. New Town Crier Michael Reddy was confirmed as Beadle to the Court, and Steward & Town Clerk Derek Maudlin announced his retirement after 15 years service, to be replaced by Jayne Topham.Next Court Leet public meeting is scheduled for 24th March in the Jury Street Courthouse, and Court Leet Assizes Day on 13th August.

York:

The President, Master, Court and Members of the Gild of Freemen of the City of York would like to thank all from other cities and boroughs who sent messages of goodwill to us during and after the recent flooding experienced in York and the surrounding area. We are also grateful to the many groups and volunteers from many places around the country

who came to help with both the rescue efforts and the continuing clean up operations. Thanks to all that helped and although there is still work to do our City is open and safe tovisit, despite the impression given in the media.

We are looking forward to our 61st annual Banquet on the 16th of April which will be held once more in the Royal York Hotel, which has undergone a multi million pound refurbishment since last years event. We hope to see many of you there, tickets for this black tie event, still at £45 each, can be booked from Mr. S. Hornby. 12 Marlborough Close, Rawcliffe Manor. York. YO30 5WA. Email hornby.steven@yahoo.co.uk by 27th ofMarch please. We shall of course also be holding a Pre Banquet get together the evening before the Banquet, again at the Royal York Hotel, which this year will be a Horse Racing evening and Supper. Tickets can again be booked with Mr. Hornby and are priced at £7.50each.

The Gild and especially our Clerk have been pleased to help with the formation of the firsttrade guild in the City for several centuries. At the beginning of December on the first anniversary of York becoming the UK's first UNESCO City of Media Arts, The Guild of Media Arts, http://www.cityofmediaarts.com/guild-1/#guildintro was formed in the new Hiscox building in the City the night before it was officially opened. The Guild attracted 100 members on the night and we were pleased the Master of the Guild could join us to read a lesson along side the Rt. Hon. The Lord Mayor of York and the Masters and Governors of the existing Guilds of the City at our Annual Carol Service. The launch was memorable for many reasons, not least the presence of a redundant Russian SA5 ballistic missile in the foyer, perhaps the first trade Guild anywhere to be launched next to such a weapon, albeit a deactivated one.

Despite the venue having been flooded, we are assured that it will be ready to once again welcome you for the 50th AGM of the Association of Freemen of England and Wales on the weekend of Friday 16th to Sunday 18th September. Plans are well in hand and the booking details shall be published in the next Journal. As in 2012, in order to keep costs asreasonable as possible, delegates are asked to find their own accommodation in the city, a guide with details of accommodation available in all price brackets from Bed and Breakfast to five star hotel shall be sent to anyone who books places, alternatively bookings can be made via Visit York 1 Museum Street, York. YO1 7DT Their Website is: http://www.visityork.org/ or you can telephone them on 01904 550099. We look forward to seeing you at the Merchant Adventurers Hall in September.

Let's Support Our Patron !As Freemen are doubtlessly aware, our Patron is The Rt Hon. The Earl Bathurst. A noted conservationist, over the years he has campaigned to preserve the rural countryside and various historic buildings. He has done much to encourage sensitive farming methods and has gained awards for his approaches to the improvement and sanctuary of wildlife. He is a President of Cirencester Housing and Master of the St Lawrence's Hospital Charity and is also the founding Director of the annual Cotswold Show, held every July on the Bathurst Estate. He is President of The Cirencester Hospital League of Friends, President of Cirencester Band, President of The Cirencester Male Voice Choir, Steward of The Cirencester Society in London, Patron of the Gloucestershire County Cricket Club,

President of The Cirencester Cricket Club, President of Cirencester Park Polo Club, and a Patron of the Cotswolds Museum Trust.In addition, he is involved in the National Farmers Union. He is President of the Gloucestershire Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG), a Vice-President of the Royal Agricultural University, past President of the Three Counties Agricultural Society and a Trustee of the Gloucestershire Farmers Members' Trust.

Cotswold Show and Food Festival 2016 will be two fun-filled days of spectacular arena attractions, traditional rural skills, delicious cookery demonstrations and much much more! Highlights for 2016 include The Royal Signals White Helmets, the Shetland Pony Grand National and a new Performing Arts arena.Held in Cirencester Park, the whole family will enjoy the fantastic mix of fun activities. It’s also a shopper’s paradise with over 300 tradestands including the much loved Food Hall. Add in falconry, rare breed animals, dog agility and hurries, plus an old fashioned funfair and fun rides for children and it’s the perfect day out. Gates open at 9am.Buy your tickets now and save over 20% on the gate price. Advance tickets are valid for one day and can be used on either day.Full price tickets will be available at the gate - Adult £14; Child £7; Family £40. Children under 3 years and dogs are admitted free. Car parking is free.

Cirencester Park, Cirencester, Gloucestershire,GL7 1XBStarts:Saturday 2nd July 2016 Ends:Sunday 3rd July 2016

For those using SatNav to get to the show, the postcode is GL7 1XB.Further details on the website www.cotswoldshow.co.uk.

It is to be hoped that individual Freemen, Guilds, and Courts Leet from towns and cities within a reasonable distance of Cirencester might consider attending one or both days of this event. In addition, there are many good hotels and B&Bs in Cirencester for those wishing to stay overnight.

January Executive Meeting.

Some of the FEW Officers discussing matters at the last Executive Meeting on January23rd at Freemen's Holt, Leicester. From left to right - Alan Fallows (Archivist), SteveWhite (Treasurer), and Jim Evans (Deputy President). Photo taken by Nick Johnson

(Secretary).

Hon. Secretary's Notices .

Notice is hereby given to all Guild/Gild/Society Representatives, Wardens, Executive Officers and Trustees, that the next FEW Court Meeting will be held on Saturday the 12th of March 2016 at 2pm in Alcester Town Hall,5 Henley Street, Alcester, B49 5QX.

Agenda

1) Attendees to sign register and be seated. a) Call to order, Opening of Court, and Welcome.2) Apologies for absence.3) Minutes of the Court Meeting held on Saturday 14th March 2015 at the Guildhall,Northampton. These minutes were published in Journal 181, Summer 2015. a) Approval of minutes.4) Matters Arising, not forming any other part of this agenda.5) President's Report.6) Deputy President's Report.7) Vice President's Report.8) Immediate Past President's Report.9) Warden's Reports.10) Hon. Treasurer's Report.11) Hon Membership Secretary's Report.12) Hon Archivist's Report.13) Hon Editor's Report.14) Officer Without Portfolio's Report.15) Any Other Business.16) Future Court & AGM Venues.17) Closure of Court.

Nominations For Few Executive Officers 2016-2017

Nominations are requested for FEW Executive Officers for 2016-2017. All positions are open for nomination, and must be submitted on the correct Nomination Form accompanying this notice (photocopies are acceptable). The positions are:- Deputy President; Vice President; Hon Secretary; Hon Treasurer; Hon Membership Secretary; Hon Archivist; Hon Editor; and Officer Without Portfolio. Please note that in order to comply with the FEW Constitution, any nominee for the offices of Deputy President, or Vice President, must have served as an Executive Officer of the Association for a minimum of one year within the preceding four years immediately prior to the nomination. All nominations must be sent to myself (Hon Secretary), and received by the closing date of 19 May 2016, in order that they can be published in the Summer 2016 Journal.

NOMINATION FORM2016-2017

We the undersigned propose………………………………………………………………

A Freeman of………………………………………………………………………………

For election to the position of………………………………………………………………of the Association of Freemen of England and Wales for the period 2014-2015

Proposer. Name…………………………… Signature…………………………......…

Seconder. Name…………………………… Signature………………………………..

I……………………………………………..declare that if elected, I am willing to serve as

……………………………………of the Association of Freemen of England and Walesfor the period 2016-2017.

Signed…………………………………………………

This nomination must be accompanied by the following:-

1. A statement from the candidate in not more than 150 words, detailing experience within the Freedom validating the candidate’s suitability to fulfil the nominated office.

2. A short prospectus from the candidate in not more than 50 words, detailing his or her aims in furthering the constitutional objectives of FEW.

3. A short statement by the principal proposer in not more than 100 words, supporting the suitability of the candidate to serve FEW in the nominated office.

4. For those not wishing to spoil their copy of the Journal, a photocopy of this form is acceptable.

5. Please return completed Form and any supporting documents to The Hon. Secretary Nick Johnson. 37 Stanhope Gardens Ilford Essex IG1 3LQ

Directory.President: Ronald Leek. Richmond House, Beech Close, Oversley Green, Alcester,

Warwickshire B49 6PP 01789 762574

Deputy President: James Evans. Makore, Northburn View. Eyemouth. TD14 5BG 018907 50701 captjamesevans@gmail.com

Vice President: Steve White. 11 Manor Avenue, Great Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire DN32 0QR 01472 329847 stevewhite.grimsby.nel@ntlworld.com

Immediate Past President: Gordon Varndell. 3 Bridge Road, Bishopthorpe. York. YO23 2RR 01904 701286 GV.44@hotmail.co.uk

Hon. Secretary: Nick Johnson. 37 Stanhope Gardens Ilford Essex IG1 3LQ 0208 554 5326 fidibelle@aol.com

Hon. Treasurer: Steve White. (See Vice President above).

Membership Secretary: Eileen Forth . 88 Whitethorn Close, Huntington, York YO3 9EU 01904 638361

Hon Archivist: Alan Fallows. 3 Holborn Drive, London Road Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY2 6SL 01743 358495 alan.fallows@talktalk.net

Officer Without Portfolio: Alan Shelley. Wycken End, 16 Bournside Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 3AH Tel 01242 515739 alan.shelley@ymail.com

Wardens.Warden for the North East: Stephen Healy. 43 Greenlee Drive, Dalesford Green, Little Benton, Newcastle upon Tyne NE7 7GA 0191 2159356 stephen.healy@tesco.net

Warden for the North: Colin Hardcastle. 19 Holt Dale Road, Leeds LS16 7RN 01132 670409 (h) 0784 720 4318 (m)

Warden for the The North West: TBC

Warden for the North Midlands: John Edwards. 5 Oak Close, Church Eaton, StaffordST20 0AQ 01785 823067 john@staffordfreemen.org.uk

Warden for the South Midlands: Derek Austin 1 Yarrow Close, Rugby, Warwickshire CV23 0TU 01788 547145 4derekaustin@mypostoffice.co.uk

Warden for the West: Howard Crapper. The Mount, Hinton Parva, Swindon, Wiltshire SN4 0DH 01793 791171 howardcrapper@supanet.com

Warden for Wales: Roy Folland Winchcombe, St Thomas Green, Haverfordwest SA61 1QW jarfolland@hotmail.com

Warden for the East: Nick Johnson (Pro Tem) (See Hon. Secretary details above)

Warden for London and the South East: Nick Johnson. (See Hon Secretary above)

Warden for the South West: Martin Hanks. Fairview Cottage, Shop, Bude. EX23 9SG. 01288 331480 oxonserve@btinternet.com

© The Freemen of England and Wales Journal, Annual Record, Gazette and Guilds Directory (ISSN1749-4095) incorporating the Newsletter (ISSN1465-8755) in continuous series, is distributed three times a year in October, February, June and is published by the Freemen of England and Wales (regd Charity 293536) and hereby asserts its copyright. FEWJ 183.

Association website: http://www.freemen-few.org.uk Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FreemenOfEnglandWales

Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Hon. Editor, F.E.W. Court or Executive.

Cover Picture: The 17th Century Alcester Town Hall (1641), the venue for the March Court Meeting. Picture courtesy of Ron Leek.

Back Cover: The Coats of Arms and Shields to be found in the Guildhall, Henley in Arden Picture courtesy of Norman Kench.

Hon. Editor: Tom Gibson, Freeman of York. All correspondence, enquiries as to advertising and circulation (including requests for additional copies) should be addressed to:

Mr. T. Gibson. Hon. Editor F.E.W Journal.

79 Tang Hall Lane. York.

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Email: thomasg624@aol.com

The editor can accept text for publication either electronically (email or on disk) or bold print hard copy to Scan. All submissions preferred in the Times New Roman font, size 10. I can also cope with images (I can convert to Black and white if necessary) either as hard copy to scan, electronically by email or on CDR/DVDR as JPG files please. If you require return of hard copies or disks an SAE is appreciated, please indicate if this is desired.Please note the closing date for the editor to receive items for the next issue (No. 184) is Friday the 20/5/16. If you would like to receive future editions of this journal by email (as a PDF) rather than through the post, please contact the editor with your details.

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